Supreme Ventures, JRC in new move to boost local racing

Supreme Ventures Racing and Entertainment Limited (SVREL), operators of Caymanas Park, has entered into a new collaborative arrangement with the Jamaica Racing Commission (JRC) aimed at boosting the local racing industry for the 2026 season.

Under the agreement, which was announced on Thursday at the Main Event Boardroom, the JRC will inject funding directly into race purses, a move designed to provide stronger incentives for owners, trainers, jockeys, and grooms while encouraging broader participation in the sport.

Executive Chairman of SVREL, Solomon Sharpe, said the initiative represents an important step in strengthening the sport’s overall structure and appeal.

“This partnership is a clear signal that the industry is moving in the right direction,” said Sharpe. He noted that the additional financial support is expected to improve the sport’s economic base and create opportunities for stakeholders at every level.

“We are always seeking ways to improve the product, because we understand that all boats will rise with the tide. The JRC’s contribution will benefit the industry as a whole. The investment will help strengthen the financial foundation of the sport and stimulate greater participation across all levels of racing,” he said.

“The first major initiative to emerge from this renewed alignment is the reintroduction of the Diamond Mile.

“The team is excited to reorganise the 2026 racing calendar to welcome back the prestigious Diamond Mile in July,” Sharpe added.

Sharpe pointed out that his organisation is working to finalise details for the race, which is scheduled to be staged in July as part of a refreshed 2026 programme.

“Having high calibre thoroughbred races like the Diamond Mile elevates our racing product and brings us closer to establishing Jamaica as the premier racing and entertainment destination in the Caribbean. Stakeholders can stay tuned for the conditions and the exact date in July that will be shared in the coming weeks.”

The JRC’s Deputy Chairman Derrick Smith welcomed the race’s return, stating that it is very significance for both participants and fans.

“As a longstanding owner, in the racing business for 50 years, and a previous winner of the Diamond Mile in 2015 and 2016, I am elated to announce the return of this race,” he said. “The JRC is pleased to work with the SVREL to bring this race back and we look forward to maintaining an excellent working relationship with the promoters.

“We want to congratulate them for bringing additional excitement to the racing calendar and we hope this is a prelude to even more exciting announcements for the year,” Smith said.